- Neglect to research the company. You should know ahead of time as much as you can possibly find out about the company—and at least what it does, where it is based, how many employees work there, and who its customers are.
- Dress inappropriately. Check the company website to see how most employees dress during the day, then take the outfit up one notch. When in doubt, dress in business casual. What not to do on your interview: dress in revealing, tight, or sloppy clothes.
- Forget your resume. Mailing or emailing your resume does not mean your interviewer will have it handy at the interview. Also, you want to take a last-minute glimpse at it yourself to make sure you remember the key points.
- Be rude. Treat everyone—from support staff to CEOs—with respect. You do not buttress your own worth by undermining the worth of others. What not to do on your interview: arrive late and make negative comparisons between this company and your current/former company.
- Check your cell phone during the interview. When looking for the reason that working hours are lost, 55 percent of employers blame mobile phones/texting. What not to do on your interview: text or answer your phone–or gaze off into the distance thinking about your video game score.
- Assume you know the answers. An interview goes both ways: the company wants to find out about you, but you should also find out about the position. For example, it is a mistake to simply assume you are interviewing for a job that never requires overtime or work on weekends.
- Lie. If you lack a requirement, explain how you intend to make up for the lack. If you are asked a question during the interview, and you do not know the answer, say so; you can also volunteer to find out the answer. It is worth stating again: do not lie.
- Complain. Do not complain about previous employers or coworkers. If you do not like the way the interviewer is treating you (making you wait hours, acting aggressive, or insulting you), then thank the interviewer, state that the job is not right for you, and leave.
Do you need support in honing your interview techniques? Do you know what to do as well as what not to do? Robin’s Resumes® consultants have certifications in coaching.